Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Can parents and spectators view the competitors?

You bet and bring your camera. You’ll have opportunity to view your child during swim, bike and run portions of the race. But, we need your cooperation in making for a safe race. Please exercise caution and adhere to instructions from race staff and volunteers. Only competitors and volunteers are allowed in the transition areas, no spectators; if you see your child needs help, signal a volunteer and they’ll be happy to assist your child. If you need to cross the bike course, do so with caution. Do not run onto bike course cheering on your child or snapping pictures.

What pool safety measures are in place?

Lifeguards will be on hand to ensure pool safety.

What should I know about the swim?

You can use any stroke you like. Freestyle is the most commonly used stroke, but not required.

You cannot use fins or wetsuit.

You can pass other swimmers. If possible tap the swimmer ahead of you on the toes to let them know you are going to pass. Don’t try to pass as you approach the turns.

If you need to rest, you can stand in pool, use lane lines, or use the wall. But you cannot propel yourself forward using lane lines or the wall.

No flip turns

Wear the provided swim caps.

Call to a volunteer if you need help exiting the pool

What is appropriate race attire?

It’s fastest to minimize clothing changes. Try to wear something in the swim that you could bike and run in. For boys, it’s a swim suit or bike shorts. For girls, you may wear a swim suit, bike shorts and swim suit / sports bra / other top for the swim. You may continue the race in this outfit or add clothing as necessary for the bike.

What do I need to know about the swim-to-bike transition (T1)?

Bike racks will be provided. Athletes will have the option of using a bike rack or a kickstand.

Helmets need to be on and chinstraps buckled before exiting the transition. Helmets must be on and buckled anytime you are on your bike. You will be disqualified if you do not wear your helmet.

Mount your bike after you’ve completely exited the transition area.

Be careful the first 500 yards, you’re excited, and there are other competitors around you and take turns at safe speed.

What do I need to know about the bike course and safety?

Portions of the bike course are closed to vehicle traffic and controlled by volunteers and police. But, be on the lookout for vehicles, dogs or people that may stray onto the course.

Be aware in parts of the course that go through neighborhoods and are open to traffic.

Control your speed at corners or turns and on descents. Heed calls of volunteers to slow down.

Look at course maps before the race. Signs and volunteers are positioned around the course to help keep you on course.

What bike can I use?

You can use any kind of bike, as long as it meets safety requirements. It must be in working order, and handlebar ends must be plugged. A volunteer will be checking bikes when you enter the transition area to ensure that your bar ends are plugged.

What do I need to know about the bike-to-run transition (T2)?

Slow down as you approach the bike dismount area. You must be dismounted to enter the transition area. You can walk or run your bike back to the bike rack.

Will there be water and aid stations?

Instructions will be provided at pre-race meeting on locations of water and aid stations. There will be certified First-Aid/CPR and EMS personnel on site during the race.

How does weather factor into the race?

As we always hope for good weather, this is one aspect out of our control and the race director may have to cancel the race if the conditions turn dangerous. Many times, this is not determined until just before the start of the race. If this unfortunate situation should occur, we cannot refund entry fees for the race. Most of the race costs have already been spent before the first wave hits the water (planning, equipment, emergency personnel, etc.). There may also be other unforeseen circumstances that may result in race cancellations. We sincerely apologize up front if a race needs to be cancelled as we continue to pursue organizing and conducting safe and fun triathlons for our kids. But note that the race will be run in the rain.

If there is thunder or lightning at the start of the race, we will delay start 30 minutes from the last lightning strike. If thunder or lightning occurs in the middle of the race, it is immediately cancelled. Athletes will be pulled from the course and taken to cover near race registration, start, and finish area.

How can I express appreciation to volunteers?

An event of this type can only happen with the help of a crew of fabulous volunteers! Please be sure to thank the volunteers you see race day! They have given their time to make the day the best for you and your triathlete!